Quinn Ewers Drafted in Seventh Round: Analyzing His Decision to Enter NFL Over Return to College

In a surprising turn of events during the 2025 NFL Draft, former Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers was selected 231st overall by the Miami Dolphins, a position that significantly underwhelmed expectations for a player of his talent and pedigree. Discussions surrounding Ewers' draft stock have been fueled by his decision to declare for the NFL Draft, foregoing what could have been a lucrative season as a college football player, potentially netting him up to $8 million in NIL deals if he had transferred to a different program like Miami or Notre Dame. Instead, Ewers opted to turn pro, leaving approximately $4 million on the table. Post-draft assessments noted that he faced numerous challenges, including injuries sustained during his years at Texas and a lack of perceived elite arm strength. These factors likely contributed to his slide down the draft board, surprising many analysts who expected him to be picked in the third to fifth round range. His performance during his college career had people pondering whether he could have solidified his status and value by playing another year in college. There’s also a broader issue raised about the NCAA's current transfer policies and the timing of transfer windows during critical playoff seasons. Critics suggested that players like Ewers deserve more time to consider their futures rather than making rushed decisions. This is especially true considering the volatile nature of draft prospects in the NFL, where one season can drastically alter a player's market value. Analysts from The Athletic expressed surprise at Ewers' draft position, questioning the scouting evaluations that led to this outcome. With some predicting he could serve as a capable backup or a short-term starter rather than a franchise quarterback, it raises further questions about his decision-making process leading up to the draft. Despite the disappointment of being drafted so late, Ewers' path forward may still hold promise. Joining the Dolphins, he will not immediately be under pressure to perform as Tua Tagovailoa's health becomes a focal point in the organization. The contrasting nature of NIL opportunities compared to rookie contracts illustrates the transformation that college football has undergone in recent years; players are often finding they can earn more as amateurs than as rookies in the NFL. With potential growth ahead, Ewers remains a compelling figure to watch as he embarks on this new chapter, but the circumstances surrounding his departure from college football continue to evoke discussions about player rights and the economics of college athletics versus professional sports.